The future of computing increasingly demands input devices that work seamlessly in mobile, public, and wearable contexts where traditional mice become impractical or socially awkward. As we move toward augmented reality, smart glasses, and always-connected devices, the need for subtle, continuous interaction grows more pressing. Current solutions often require bulky hardware, frequent charging, or obvious gestures that draw unwanted attention.

The picoRing mouse research project tackles these challenges by reimagining the computer mouse as a ring-based, ultra-low-power wearable device. This experimental system consists of a tiny ring housing a trackball and a companion wristband that receives input data, creating a setup that enables discreet computer control in situations where conventional input methods would be impossible or inappropriate.

Designers: Yifan Li, Masaaki Fukumoto, Mohamed Kari, Shigemi Ishida, Akihito Noda, Tomoyuki Yokota, Takao Someya, Yoshihiro Kawahara, Ryo Takahashi (University of Tokyo)

The core technology relies on inductive coupling between coils embedded in both the ring and wristband. When you move the trackball with your finger, the input gets encoded as frequency-modulated signals and transmitted wirelessly to the wristband with minimal power consumption. The wristband then decodes these frequency peaks back into mouse movements and sends them to your connected device.

The user experience prioritizes subtlety and continuous availability. You can control a cursor, navigate interfaces, or interact with applications using tiny finger movements that are virtually invisible to others around you. The system is designed for environments like airplanes, trains, meetings, or crowded public spaces where pulling out a laptop mouse would be awkward or impossible.

Of course, the practical applications extend beyond just solving social awkwardness. The picoRing mouse could serve as an input device for presentations, allowing speakers to control slides while moving freely. It might also benefit users with mobility challenges who find traditional mice difficult to operate, or serve as a companion for future AR glasses and wearable computing devices.

The ultra-low power design enables all-day wearability without the charging anxiety that plagues most wearable devices. The research demonstrates that meaningful interaction doesn’t require high-power processors or large batteries when the communication method is optimized for efficiency rather than complexity.

That said, this remains a research prototype with significant limitations. The input precision and speed likely can’t match traditional mice for complex tasks, gaming, or detailed work. The learning curve for adapting to ring-based input could be substantial, and compatibility with existing devices and operating systems would require additional development before any commercial viability.

The research status means we’re looking at early-stage exploration rather than a polished product ready for everyday use. The focus is on proving concepts and testing boundaries rather than delivering a consumer-ready experience. Current limitations around input complexity, device integration, and user adaptation would need substantial refinement before practical deployment.

You’ll notice how research like this pushes the boundaries of what input devices can be, exploring possibilities that commercial products might never attempt. The picoRing mouse invites us to reconsider our assumptions about how we interact with technology, suggesting that the future of human-computer interfaces might be far more subtle and integrated than we currently imagine.

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Athletes know that performance isn’t just about physical strength or stamina. Mental focus, resilience, and emotional control are just as critical when the pressure is on. Yet most wearables on the market still focus on heart rate, steps, or calories, leaving the brain’s role in training largely invisible. For anyone who’s ever lost focus at a crucial moment or wondered why a session just didn’t click, there’s finally a new tool that brings mental fitness into the spotlight.

What makes the Nuromova N1 AI Sports Headband so compelling is how it turns the abstract world of mental state into real-time, actionable data. Forget about your run-of-the-mill wrist-worn fitness tracker. This is a sleek, lightweight headband packed with pro-level EEG sensors and AI-powered analytics, designed to help athletes of all levels train smarter, recover faster, and understand themselves better.

Designer: Nuromova Technology Co., Limited

Click Here to Buy Now: $329 $599 (45% off). Hurry, only a few left!

The design is clearly built for movement. The N1 features a soft, adaptive fit that hugs your head without squeezing, thanks to a multi-layer construction. A breathable, sweat-wicking outer surface, a cushioned mid-layer, and a cool, non-slip skin layer keep everything in place even during intense workouts. The headband is lightweight and minimalist, so it feels like any other high-performance sports accessory, just smarter.

Comfort isn’t just a side note here. The headband’s modular quick-release design makes it easy to put on or take off, while the gel electrodes ensure high-quality signal capture without irritation. The magnetic charging dock and extended battery life mean you can train day after day without worrying about running out of juice mid-session.

Of course, the real magic happens once you start moving. The N1’s EEG sensors capture brain signals from the frontal cortex, analyzing focus, stress, fatigue, and emotional shifts in real time. The AI model, running on both the headband and in the cloud, delivers instant feedback. If your focus dips or stress spikes, you’ll feel a gentle vibration cue, letting you adjust before your performance suffers.

The companion app is as thoughtfully designed as the hardware. Syncing is instant and calibration-free, so you can get started right away. During training, you see live readouts of your mental state. After each session, you get a detailed breakdown of focus curves, fatigue spikes, and emotional trends. The app even lets you align video highlights with your brain data, making it easy to spot what triggered a lapse or a breakthrough.

What’s especially interesting is how the N1 adapts to different sports and routines. Whether you’re a tennis player, runner, archer, or team athlete, the headband tracks your mental performance across disciplines. Early users describe it as a thinking partner that helps them understand when to push, when to reset, and how to optimize every session, not just physically but mentally.

The technology under the hood is impressive, but it never feels intimidating. Deep learning models analyze your data and generate personalized suggestions, all while protecting your privacy through federated learning. The feedback is fast, under 200 milliseconds, so you’re always in sync with your own brain. The AI coach feature provides insights that feel genuinely helpful rather than overwhelming.

That said, the N1 isn’t just about numbers and graphs. It’s about changing the way athletes approach training and recovery. Instead of guessing at what’s happening inside your head, you get clear, science-backed insights that help you build mental toughness and resilience over time. The design is subtle enough for everyday wear but smart enough to make a real difference when it counts.

The multi-sport versatility makes this headband particularly appealing for athletes who cross-train or compete in multiple disciplines. The same device that helps a tennis player maintain focus during long rallies can help a runner push through mental barriers or assist an archer in achieving perfect concentration. This adaptability means your investment grows with your athletic interests.

The Nuromova N1 AI Sports Headband represents a new frontier in sports technology, where mental fitness becomes as measurable and trainable as physical performance. For athletes who understand that the mind runs the game, this headband offers a way to finally see, understand, and optimize the psychological side of peak performance. It’s the kind of innovation that makes you wonder how you ever trained without knowing what your brain was actually doing.

Click Here to Buy Now: $329 $599 (45% off). Hurry, only a few left!

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WATI is an innovative wearable concept designed to help people safely navigate rising temperatures in urban environments. As cities become hotter due to climate change and the Urban Heat Island effect, the need for personal, real-time guidance grows more urgent. WATI is being developed as a next-generation ambient temperature indicator, blending environmental awareness with features aimed at sports and daily life.

The heart of WATI’s utility lies in its ability to guide users through city heat. By pairing with a companion app, WATI suggests ‘cool routes’ for walking, running, or commuting. These routes are generated by combining multiple data sources: hyperlocal heat maps from Meteoblue, thermal satellite imagery provided by Constellr and SatVu, and crowdsourced ground-level data from other WATI users. This fusion of information allows WATI to recommend not only the fastest or shortest path, but the safest one in terms of temperature and sun exposure.

Designer Name: Iana Nikolova

The device itself is thoughtfully crafted for both aesthetics and functionality. It features a circular touchscreen, with a unique interface inspired by the minimalist weather graphics from Nothing and the robust, data-driven look of classic IBM mainframes. The casing is made from plant-based resin that reflects UV rays, offering both sustainability and extra protection from the sun. With a battery life of up to 10 hours, WATI is ready for long days out in the city.

WATI’s dual-attachment system means it can be worn in different ways, adapting to personal style and activity. Whether clipped to a shirt, attached to a bag, or worn like a traditional smartwatch, the device is meant to fit seamlessly into daily routines. Real-time alerts set WATI apart from standard wearables. The device can notify users about current UV exposure, nearby hydration points, shaded areas, and even warn of Urban Heat Island risks. This is especially valuable for runners, elderly residents, and anyone sensitive to heat. The companion app visualizes all this data with a community-driven feel, displaying achievements, heat analytics, and contributions from other WATI users in real time.

By making heat visible, personal, and actionable, WATI aims to empower individuals to make smarter choices as they move through the city. Instead of simply reacting to the weather, users can plan their routes, hydration, and activities with confidence. The concept also emphasizes community, as every user’s data helps others find safer paths. WATI is still in development, but the concept offers a timely solution for a warming world.

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Apple claimed Client of the Year at the 2025 D&AD Awards while securing multiple Pencil wins across categories. The London ceremony on May 22 recognized Apple’s creative excellence spanning product innovation to brand storytelling. D&AD awarded 668 total Pencils to exceptional creative work from 86 countries worldwide.

Designer: Apple

Client of the Year recognition highlights sustained creative performance across Apple’s entire portfolio. The company competed against global brands for this prestigious honor. D&AD judges evaluate commercial impact alongside creative craft when selecting winners.

Apple Marcom earned recognition as a leading in-house creative team. The division secured Wood Pencil wins for major campaigns including “Find Your Friends” and Apple Intelligence work. Additional wins span experiential marketing and television advertising categories.

Hearing Health Features Win Impact Recognition

AirPods Pro 2 earned a White Pencil in the Impact category for Design. The recognition celebrates Apple’s hearing health innovation that transforms consumer earbuds into assistance tools for people with hearing loss. These features address global health challenges affecting 1.5 billion people.

The system includes a scientifically validated hearing test users complete in minutes. Results create personalized hearing profiles stored privately in the Health app. FDA‑authorized over‑the‑counter hearing aid software amplifies specific frequencies for adults with mild to moderate loss. This marks the first OTC hearing aid software feature in mainstream consumer audio.

Traditional hearing aids can cost thousands of dollars and require specialist visits. Apple’s approach makes clinical‑grade hearing assistance accessible through devices people already own. The White Pencil recognition validates design that serves genuine human needs rather than showcasing technical capabilities alone.

Campaign Excellence Spans Multiple Categories

Apple secured Wood Pencil wins across television and experiential categories. “Find Your Friends” won in TV/VOD for demonstrating Precision Finding technology through a relatable convention scenario with 170+ real fans. The campaign shows Apple’s approach to making complex features understandable through story.

Apple Intelligence campaigns earned recognition for demonstrating AI writing tools through practical examples, not abstract promises. Creative execution connects sophisticated technology to daily communication needs.

“Flock”: Privacy Protection Through Dystopian Storytelling

Apple’s “Flock” campaign earned a Wood Pencil in Film for its dystopian portrayal of online surveillance. The film transforms abstract privacy concerns into visceral, understandable experiences through powerful metaphor.

Directed by Ivan Zacharias of SMUGGLER for TBWAMedia Arts Lab, the campaign shows iPhone fending off bird-like surveillance cameras to preserve customer privacy. The meticulously crafted special effects included sound designer Gus Coven visiting Los Angeles junkyards to create authentic metallic bird sounds, while Academy Award-winning editor Mikkel E. G. Nielsen structured the spy-thriller narrative.

The campaign delivers a powerful metaphor and clear category statement about Safari’s privacy protection, making complex technical capabilities emotionally resonant. Rather than explaining privacy features through specifications, Apple created a memorable narrative that connects advanced technology to fundamental human values.

The recognition validates Apple’s approach to making sophisticated technology understandable through story. “Flock” demonstrates how creative execution can transform technical differentiators into compelling brand narratives that resonate across diverse audiences.

Experiential Excellence: “Severance: The Cube”

Apple’s experiential marketing earned recognition through “Severance: The Cube,” which won a Wood Pencil in the Experiential category. The activation demonstrated how physical installations can extend digital storytelling into real-world experiences.

The campaign placed the iconic Lumon Industries office and cast inside a giant transparent glass cube in Grand Central Terminal, where actors performed mundane office tasks for three hours. Every detail was meticulously crafted, from office furniture and costumes to security guards trained in character-appropriate dialogue.

The activation generated impressive results: 53,000 in-person visitors, 1.1 billion social impressions, 80,000 social mentions, and 3.5 million engagements. More importantly, it successfully translated the show’s themes about work-life boundaries into an immersive experience that questioned the relationship between performance and reality.

The recognition validates experiential marketing that creates genuine cultural moments rather than promotional events. Apple demonstrated how thoughtful activation design can blur boundaries between entertainment and advertising while generating authentic audience engagement.

Creative Strategy Balances Innovation with Accessibility

Apple’s D&AD success demonstrates a consistent creative philosophy. Technical innovation serves human needs. Complex capabilities become accessible through thoughtful design and clear communication.

The hearing health features exemplify this approach. Apple identified a global health challenge and created a solution with existing hardware and new software. Users access clinical capabilities without learning new systems or visiting specialists. Innovation removes barriers rather than adding complexity.

Campaign work follows the same principles by making complex features relatable through familiar scenarios. “Find Your Friends” shows Precision Finding in a crowded space many recognize. Apple Intelligence advertising demonstrates writing assistance through everyday communication tasks.

Industry Recognition Validates Design Thinking

D&AD judges emphasized commercial viability alongside creative excellence in 2025. Work needed real behavioral impact beyond aesthetic appeal. Apple’s wins validate approaches that solve problems through strong craft.

Trustees praised work that breaks away from the expected while staying fit for purpose. Apple’s recognition spans this philosophy from product features to advertising execution.

The company’s success across multiple categories shows rare creative consistency. Many brands excel in either advertising or product design. Apple shows strength across disciplines through unified design thinking that connects object, interface, and story.

Broader Impact on Technology Marketing

Client of the Year influences how technology companies approach creative work. The wins demonstrate that technical innovation alone does not guarantee adoption. Exceptional creative execution turns capabilities into clear experiences.

Other tech brands study Apple’s integration of product development with brand storytelling. The recognition validates investment in creative excellence alongside engineering. The hearing health White Pencil, in particular, signals a shift toward inclusive design as advantage, not obligation.

Apple’s 2025 D&AD results confirm that creative excellence drives understanding and use. Users connect with brands through emotional engagement and functional clarity. For many with hearing challenges, this recognition translates into improved daily experiences on devices they already carry.

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Apple treated the human ear as a construction site, mapping thousands of scans before design began. That data shaped AirPods Pro 3, where hidden geometry and micron-level precision unlocked new room for fit and fitness features. The project started with a deceptively simple brief: fit more ears, add meaningful workout value, and keep the silhouette unchanged. The project started with a deceptively simple brief: fit more ears, add meaningful fitness value, and keep the silhouette unchanged. Kate Bergeron, Apple’s VP of Hardware Engineering, described it as the kind of challenge her team thrives on. “Trying to improve both features and fit and comfort in a very small volume product is a challenge the engineering team loves,” she said. The constraints shaped every design decision, from geometry to materials to hidden electronics.

Designer: Apple

Using those scans, Apple simulated bud geometry and ear tip interfaces virtually, placing structures only where anatomy allowed. The new AirPods Pro look deliberately familiar from the outside, a calculated design choice that masks profound internal changes. The most sophisticated engineering advances live within invisible spaces. Here, material science, optical engineering, and antenna design converge in ways that redefine what’s possible in such constrained volumes. Each component placement required micron-level precision, transforming limitations into opportunities for breakthrough innovation.

AirPods Pro 3 ear tip design and ANC performance

Geometry came first. Apple reduced the bulb volume so the buds could fit more ear types, then used tens of thousands of ear scans to validate the shapes before tooling. Bergeron explained that the team relied on its “really large tens of thousands of participants’ ear database” to optimize both bud geometry and ear tip interfaces virtually, before moving into physical testing.

Seal stability is critical in real use, whether you’re talking, chewing, or biking. Apple’s approach is systematic: model in simulation, then validate in hardware. This avoids chasing ergonomic problems after the fact and turns design into a predictive process instead of trial and error.

New tip system and material shift

The most visible change is the tip itself. Apple redesigned the material composition, combining silicone with foam-infused elements on a smaller attachment mechanism. “The change of material from a performance and engineering perspective, I would say, yes, is necessary,” Bergeron noted. Pro 2 tips simply would not fit the reduced hardware, and the combination creates better passive attenuation that enables the 2× ANC improvement, working alongside algorithmic advances.

Airpods Pro 3 (left) + AirPods Pro 2 (right)

Firmer tips demand more sizes to keep comfort in balance. Apple expanded to five options, including XXS, and encourages users to mix sizes left and right when necessary. This ensures more people can achieve a proper seal without forcing the bud deeper into the canal.

What it solves: A better seal means less algorithmic effort for ANC, improved silence on planes, and greater stability during movement. Firmer tips can feel less forgiving for some ears, especially compared to the softer Pro 2 material. Bergeron emphasized that Apple expanded to five tip sizes to help more people find a proper fit. She also acknowledged that extended ANC use “for some people can be fatiguing, right? Like there’s this psychoacoustic thing,” and said Apple would be monitoring long-duration feedback as more users adopt the new design.

Airpods Pro 3

Airpods Pro 2

AirPods Pro 3 heart rate sensor innovation

Adding fitness tracking inside such a small form required both space creation and precise placement. After redesigning several components (driver, battery, and in-ear sensor) to reduce volume, Apple’s team worked through 16 candidate sensor locations, used ear scan heat maps, and refined placement down to hundreds of microns to land the final site. “We actually started with 16 candidate locations and through simulation, tried to find the best one,” Bergeron explained.

The optics follow ear geometry. The emitter and detector surfaces curve to match the canal, hidden behind an IR window that keeps the touch surface comfortable. Because the window reduces energy, Apple plated the inside of the microcylindrical wells to increase internal reflection. The result: a 200 percent signal boost in a cavity measured in microns.

The payoff is a heart rate sensor “massively smaller” than watch versions, yet accurate against chest strap comparisons. For many users, the ear proves a more reliable site than the wrist, since it moves less and avoids interference from tattoos or arm motion.

AirPods Pro 3 antenna and electronics design

The stem conceals one of the most elegant design moves. Previous approaches often parked a flex antenna along a wall, which stole volume from microphones or sensors. Apple’s solution integrates the antenna directly with the SIP. “We worked on a technology to pad print the antenna geometry onto the outside of the SIP surface,” Bergeron said. The team then laser-drilled vias into the electronics and plated a conduction path to the ground plane.

The outcome is simple to describe but difficult to execute: the antenna “literally take up no space.” It shares the same surface as the electronics, fixes its position relative to the body, and preserves the bud’s clean profile. This consistency keeps radio performance steady without compromising thickness or microphone placement.

Cultural architecture of wearables

AirPods are not just tools. They are cultural signals seen essentially everywhere, the ultimate everyday carry. Their success depends on adding function without disrupting their social presence. The Pro 3 design extends function (fitness tracking, hearing features, translation) while preserving the familiar form.

Apple knows wear behavior goes beyond specs. Bergeron acknowledged that extended ANC sessions can be fatiguing for some. The company studies real-world usage to refine materials and software accordingly. Quiet design here means more than aesthetics. It is about creating a socially acceptable, all-day wearable that feels invisible in daily life.

The bottom line

AirPods Pro 3 are designed from the inside out. Foam-infused tips turn seal into structure. Optics curved to the body, boosted with plated wells, enable continuous heart rate. A printed antenna shares space with the SIP to free volume for other systems.

Each move treats space as a design material instead of a limit. The result is an everyday object that behaves like architecture at thumb scale: practical, elegant, and nearly invisible – an everyday architecture, worn as naturally as keys or glasses.

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In rising temperatures, cooling wearables offer a smart solution to beat the heat. With global temperatures increasing, even regions that were once cool year-round are now facing hotter, more prolonged summers, making personal cooling devices more relevant than ever. Designed for daily wear, work, or outdoor activities, these devices help manage body temperature and reduce heat-related discomfort. Studies indicate that this market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 12.8% from the year 2025-2034.
Whether it’s a pocket air conditioner, cooler strap, or cooling blanket, each product provides portable relief and enhances comfort in a warming world.

1. Wearable Air Conditioner

Wearable air conditioners are compact, lightweight devices designed to provide personal cooling by being worn around the neck or upper body. They use technologies like the Peltier effect and integrated fans to deliver targeted temperature regulation directly to the skin. The Peltier effect involves using an electric current to transfer heat between two surfaces, creating a cooling sensation on one side. These devices are ideal for staying comfortable during commutes, outdoor activities, or extended time in warm environments.

Some advanced models include sensors that automatically adjust cooling or warming based on the wearer’s body temperature. With features like cooling plates and directed airflow, they ensure a consistent, customised experience. Wearable air conditioners offer a practical, portable solution for managing heat on the go.

The TORRAS Coolify 3 is a next-generation wearable air conditioner designed to deliver fast, targeted cooling wherever you go. Worn comfortably around the neck, it features a significantly expanded 14,388 mm² cooling area. Equipped with high-efficiency semiconductors and four high-speed fans, it channels cool air to the front and back of the neck, addressing the most heat-sensitive zones on the body.

Built for performance and comfort, the Coolify 3 includes three additional airflow channels and two rear outlets, ensuring comprehensive cooling coverage. The ergonomic design accommodates various neck sizes with flexible, wide angles and smart airflow direction that avoids the ears. Whether for outdoor activities or daily commutes, the Coolify 3 redefines portable cooling with intelligent engineering and all-day comfort.

2. Cooling Blankets

A cooling blanket is designed to help regulate body temperature during sleep by either drawing heat away from the body or enhancing airflow to maintain a cooler sleeping environment. These blankets are made from breathable, lightweight fabrics like cotton, bamboo, or moisture-wicking synthetics that help in evaporating sweat and prevent overheating.

Some advanced cooling blankets incorporate phase change materials (PCMs) or jade particles that absorb body heat and release it gradually to stabilise temperature. Their woven structure often allows for better air circulation, reducing heat buildup. Together, these features promote a more comfortable and restful sleep, especially in warmer climates.

The Infinity Cool Blanket redefines comfort with its advanced cooling technology wrapped in the form of a soft, breathable blanket. Designed to reduce body temperature by up to 15°C, it uses high-performance cooling fibres that absorb and dissipate heat instantly. These fibres are responsive to body heat and moisture, activating a cooling effect that mimics the feel of an air-conditioned room, without the need for electricity. Built-in insulation blocks external heat while wicking away sweat, keeping you cool, dry, and comfortable throughout the night.

Perfect for indoor and outdoor use, this lightweight blanket offers maximum airflow without feeling heavy or restrictive. Its stretchable, anti-bacterial fabric remains fresh for weeks and is machine washable for easy care. Quick-drying and pill-resistant, the Infinity Cool Blanket stays soft after every wash and offers portable cooling comfort with its compact pouch that is perfect for home, travel, or outdoor use.

3. Wearable Cooler Straps

One can experience instant relief from heat with wearable cooler straps, a sleek hands-free solution designed for on-the-go comfort. These ergonomic straps wrap comfortably around the shoulders or neck and use advanced cooling technology to help lower body temperature. They are ideal for workouts, outdoor activities, travel, or everyday use in warm environments.

Lightweight and discreet, cooler straps often come with adjustable fits, rechargeable batteries, and multiple cooling levels for personalised comfort. Some versions include phase-change materials or built-in fans to enhance temperature regulation. Designed for convenience and performance, they help you stay cool, refreshed, and focused throughout the day.

The Torras Coolify Zone is a compact, waist-worn cooling device that delivers powerful, targeted relief in hot weather. Using dual centrifugal fans and phase change materials (PCMs), it cools your torso by up to 18°F by blowing air upward and absorbing body heat. Designed for outdoor comfort, it’s ideal for jogging, hiking, camping, or simply staying cool during summer activities. The built-in 4000mAh battery offers 5 to 15 hours of use, and the USB-C port makes recharging simple and convenient. Three adjustable modes let you control the cooling intensity to match your needs.

For maximum effectiveness, the Coolify Zone is best worn under clothing, allowing the fabric to trap and direct airflow across your body. The device includes an adjustable belt, a touch-sensitive control panel, and a standby button for ease of use during intense heat.

4. Pocket Air Conditioner

A pocket air conditioner is a compact, wearable device designed to regulate body temperature by offering cooling and heating functions. It typically fits into a special garment, such as a V-neck undershirt, and utilizes thermoelectric technology based on the Peltier effect to create a temperature difference without the use of traditional refrigerants.

Designed for on-the-go comfort, these devices are worn near the neck or back to deliver targeted relief. Advanced models may feature sensors that detect temperature, humidity, and motion, automatically adjusting to your environment and activity level. Ideal for commuters, travellers, or daily use, they offer personalized climate control in any setting.

One can stay comfortable in any climate with Sony’s compact, wearable air conditioner that is designed to regulate body temperature on the go. Lightweight and discreet, it fits at the base of the neck using a specially designed undershirt and uses thermoelectric technology to cool one down by up to 13°C or warm up by 8°C. Ideal for hot, humid days or unexpected chills, it offers silent, efficient performance without the bulk of traditional cooling devices.

Easily controlled via Bluetooth through a mobile app, it allows one to set the preferred temperature or switch to automatic mode for hands-free adjustment. Weighing just 85 grams, it’s perfect for daily commutes, outdoor activities, or short trips. The device is powered by a USB-C port, and while the battery lasts around two hours per charge, it’s sufficient for errands, breaks, or brief outdoor use.

5. Wearable Fans

One can stay cool and comfortable wherever they go with wearable fans, which is a hands-free, portable solution for beating the heat. Designed to rest around the neck or clip onto clothing, these lightweight devices deliver a refreshing breeze without interrupting your daily routine. Ideal for outdoor activities, travel, workouts, or commuting, they offer cooling relief on demand.

Most wearable fans feature multiple speed settings, long-lasting rechargeable batteries, and quiet operation for discreet use. Some models also include bladeless technology or integrated air purification, combining safety with smart functionality. Compact yet powerful, wearable fans are the perfect companion for hot days on the move.

The blö is a compact and wearable cooling device designed to keep one comfortable in hot and humid conditions. Lightweight and discreet, it clips easily onto the chest, back, or waistband without interfering with one’s outfit or movement. It works by drawing air through a honeycomb-patterned top, passing it over peppermint essential oils, and releasing it downward onto the skin to create a refreshing cooling effect. Ideal for workouts, daily commutes, or outdoor activities, it helps prevent sweat buildup and keeps the body feeling fresh throughout the day.

What sets the blö apart is its dual functionality. In cooler or rainy months, simply replace the peppermint with lemongrass or citronella essential oils to enjoy natural mosquito repellent benefits. The device runs for 4 to 8 hours, depending on the fan speed, and recharges fully in just 90 minutes via MicroUSB. Stylish, versatile, and season-ready, the blö offers portable comfort whenever and wherever you need it.

As climate conditions become more extreme, cooling wearables play an important role in personal comfort and safety. With growing innovations in materials and design, they offer practical, sustainable solutions for staying cool on the go.

The post Top 5 Wearables Designed to Keep You Cool In Hot Weather first appeared on Yanko Design.

At Paris’s Vélodrome National, Huawei staged its most ambitious ecosystem showcase to date. The event focused on an interconnected lineup of wearables, smartphones, tablets, audio, and creative software. The strategy challenges Apple’s ecosystem advantage while addressing gaps competitors have not resolved.

Designer: Huawei

Huawei reports 200 million wearable shipments worldwide and cites the number one global position in wrist-worn devices during the first half of 2025. The GT Series alone has shipped 54 million units. These totals frame why Huawei sees itself as a category leader.

Consider a cyclist who needs real-time power data without expensive meters, a diver 40 meters down losing buddy contact, a creator editing 4K footage on location, someone requiring medical-grade blood pressure monitoring, or an artist who wants PC-level tools on mobile. This Paris showcase addresses each scenario with technology that stretches what consumer electronics can do.

Revolutionary Technology Addresses Real-World Problems

This launch connects breakthrough innovations across product categories to solve problems competitors have not addressed. The Watch GT 6 Pro introduces what Huawei describes as an industry-first virtual cycling power system that calculates real-time output without external power meters. According to Huawei, more than 1,000 wind tunnel experiments informed resistance models for varied riding scenarios. Riders enter basic inputs, including bike weight and body weight, then see power data in real time.

The Ultimate 2 debuts what Huawei positions as a sonar-based underwater messaging system. Divers can exchange preset messages at depths up to 30 meters, which addresses a safety gap that traditional dive computers do not solve. The system allows pairing with up to 50 diving buddies before descent, with preset message capability once underwater. During emergencies, pressing the upper left button sends an SOS alert that propagates through nearby watches, creating a multi-point safety network extending coverage beyond the initial 30-meter range through relay capabilities.

The Watch D2 offers 24-hour ambulatory blood pressure monitoring that Huawei says is certified by TÜV Rheinland. The goal is clinical-grade accuracy in a consumer device. Users can set up to 10 separate reminders per day or configure multiple consecutive measurements within custom time periods with 30 or 60-minute intervals. PulseWave Arrhythmia Analysis provides continuous heart health monitoring in the background, while a new emotional well-being indicator adds mental health tracking.

Complete Wearables Portfolio: Four Watches Targeting Every User

Watch GT 6 Pro: Professional Sports Authority

The GT 6 Pro keeps the octagonal design and adds a 3D bezel for dynamic highlights. The 1.47-inch AMOLED reaches 3,000 nits peak brightness, a 150 percent improvement for sunlight visibility. Aerospace-grade titanium with a hard coating improves scratch resistance. IP69 and 5ATM ratings support high-pressure water jets and swimming. Do not use these ratings to imply scuba diving.

Battery life reaches up to 21 days with light use and about 12 days in typical use. High-silicon batteries increase energy density by 37 percent. Trail running mode runs up to 40 hours, a 67 percent increase. Golf integration includes over 17,000 courses worldwide with precise distance measurements between 82 points.

The watch features the new Huawei Sunflower positioning system with 20% enhanced accuracy and introduces the 32G IMU sensor for improved fall detection. Sports capabilities span skiing (three modes including snowboarding and cross-country), running with real-time form analysis, and golf with half-scoring after each ninth hole.

Watch GT 6: Emotional Intelligence for Mainstream Users

The standard GT 6 focuses on comprehensive health monitoring with emotion detection capability. According to Huawei, the watch can intelligently detect and record three different emotional states with upgraded emotional well-being features compared to previous generations. Over 100 animated “PatWatch” faces provide instant mood enhancement, while guided breathing exercises offer relaxation support.

The 41mm model features adjustable loop lugs for smaller wrists, with a rounded bezel and numbered scales creating a sleeker appearance. The purple corrugated strap combines fashion with all-day comfort, available in five color options for personalization. Construction uses 316L stainless steel that balances durability with lightweight comfort for daily wear.

Watch Ultimate 2: Extreme Adventure Technology

The Ultimate 2 represents Huawei’s direct challenge to the Apple Watch Ultra’s adventure positioning. According to Huawei, the octagonal hollow design uses zirconium-based liquid metal construction with enhanced hardness coating that triples case durability compared to previous generations. The 3,500 nit LTPO display ensures visibility in conditions where Apple Watch Ultra users struggle with screen readability.

Huawei describes a re-engineered antenna that uses the case as a booster for NFC payments, eSIM calls, and navigation in weak-signal areas. The company claims improved route precision versus competing outdoor watches. Independent testing will need to confirm this. Battery performance reaches 4.5 days with all features active, extending to 11 days in battery saver mode. For context, Apple Watch Ultra delivers 36 hours with intensive use, making Huawei’s claims significant if validated.

Golf integration spans over 70,000 course maps worldwide with AI caddy functions providing club suggestions and green slope directions. Camera control supports Insta360 and DJI devices with simple double-tap commands, transforming activity stats into dynamic video stickers for sports like hiking, biking, snowboarding, diving, and skiing. This ecosystem integration directly targets adventure content creators who find Apple Watch camera controls limited.

The X-TAP all-in-one sensing system combines ECG, PPG, and tactile sensors positioned on both the side and back of the watch for what Huawei describes as faster, more comprehensive health monitoring than competing devices. At high altitudes, real-time fingertip SpO2 measurement helps guard against altitude sickness risks that traditional wrist-based sensors may miss. AI noise reduction using an NPU earned the highest five-star certification from SGS, ensuring crystal-clear calls in wind and noise conditions where other smartwatches fail. Huawei positions these capabilities as superior to Apple Watch Ultra’s more basic health sensors and communication features.

Smartphone Innovation: Nova 14 Series Redefines Mobile Photography

Nova 14 Pro: Ultra Chroma Camera System Breakthrough

The Nova 14 Pro introduces Huawei’s first Ultra Chroma Camera system with a 50MP RYYB sensor and physical variable aperture. According to the company, color restoration accuracy has increased by 120%, with spatial resolution improvements exceeding 100,000 times compared to traditional smartphones. The XD Portrait Engine uses advanced algorithms to optimize portrait photography across multiple zoom levels.

The front camera system features a 50MP ultra portrait dual camera delivering 5x digital zoom and 2x optical zoom. Huawei’s industry-exclusive zoom technology provides 0.8x to 5x range effortlessly, while the industry’s first front ultra-speed snapshot captures falling objects with remarkable clarity. Three built-in portrait themes – Natural, Delicate, and Stylish – offer immediate customization options.

The ultra-thin 7.78mm body features curved edges in Pure White, Crystal Blue, and Classical Black colors. The 6.78-inch quad-curve display supports 120Hz adaptive refresh rate, powered by a 5,500mAh battery with 100W SuperCharge Turbo. AI capabilities include Best Expression for post-capture facial adjustments and AI Remove for unwanted element elimination.

Advanced AI features extend beyond photography to interactive experiences. Lock screen games include Emoji Cross for bouncing emojis and AirHoop for gesture-controlled basketball shooting. AI messaging hides content when someone peers over shoulders, while exclusive AI gesture control enables touchless operation – scrolling videos while cooking or capturing screenshots by grabbing air.

Nova 14: Mainstream Excellence with Premium Features

The standard Nova 14 achieves even greater thinness at 7.18mm while maintaining the same 5,500mAh battery and 100W fast charging as the Pro model. The 6.7-inch OLED flat-edge display supports 120Hz refresh rates with intelligent adjustment capabilities down to 20Hz for battery optimization.

Camera upgrades include a 50MP RYYB ultra-vision main camera, telephoto lens, and ultra-wide macro camera system. The adaptive multifocal dual flash captures perfect moments in challenging lighting conditions, while maintaining color consistency across zoom ranges from 1x to 10x magnification.

Professional Tablet Computing: MatePad 12X Brings PC-Level Capabilities

The MatePad 12X features a pearlescent finish with seamless all-metal body construction, available in elegant green and pristine white colors. At 5.9mm thickness and 555g weight, it achieves ultra-portable dimensions while maintaining professional capabilities that directly challenge iPad Pro dominance in creative markets.

The upgraded paper matte display uses high-precision nanoscale etching technology, reducing sparkle by 50% compared to previous generations. The 12-inch LCD panel delivers 1000 nits peak brightness with 140Hz refresh rate, featuring an 88% screen-to-body ratio and 3:2 aspect ratio optimized for productivity workflows.

Huawei Notes includes AI handwriting enhancement and note replay functionality, synchronizing written notes with audio recordings for comprehensive meeting capture. PC-level video editing capabilities, developed in partnership with Phil Mora, enable professional content creation on mobile. The new drawing feature allows animation creation directly on video tracks using the M-Pencil Pro.

Performance improvements reach 27% better than previous models through enhanced hardware and more efficient cooling systems. Wi-Fi 7 connectivity provides enhanced stability for gaming and live streaming, while the large battery supports 66W supercharge capability. Live multitask features unlock interactive touch controls for editing and office tasks.

M-Pencil Pro: Professional Creative Tool Revolution

The M-Pencil Pro incorporates over 300 precision components with advanced pressure sensors detecting subtle touch variations. The premium tip features three layers – nickel, gold, and platinum – for premium tactile feedback that rivals professional art tools. Three interchangeable pen tips serve different creative needs.

Gesture control enables pinch-to-open radial menu access, while the embedded micromotor provides subtle vibration feedback confirming commands. The quick button launches preset favorite applications with single presses. Nearlink technology ensures accurate stroke translation, while the innovative rotate gesture automatically aligns brushes with stylus tilt and rotation for authentic artistic expression.

Audio Excellence: FreeBuds 7i Advances Noise Cancellation

The FreeBuds 7i introduces Dynamic ANC 4.0, which Huawei describes as their most advanced noise cancellation technology. The system intelligently adapts to ambient environments, automatically adjusting cancellation levels with faster response times and lower latency than previous generations. Performance enables clear audio immersion in noisy cafes or crowded subway environments.

Bone conduction microphones enable clear calls in environments with noise levels up to 90 decibels. The new six-axis head motion sensor provides 360-degree head tracking for spatial audio experiences with independent sound field calculation capability. This works universally with any phone or tablet, not just Huawei devices.

The circular case design fits naturally into bags or pockets, available in Mirandi Pink, White, and Black colors. Four ear tip sizes ensure proper fit across different users. The new Huawei Audio Connect app, compatible with both Android and iOS devices, launches at the end of September in major application stores.

Creative Ecosystem: GoPaint Community and Tools

The MatePad 12X comes pre-installed with the acclaimed GoPaint app, which now serves over 5 million users across 30+ countries. Intelligent color extraction allows effortless color sampling from any image, while the recently added animation feature enables frame-by-frame animation creation without limits.

The 2025 GoPaint Activity opens with five categories, including an all-new animation category. Last year’s activity received over 6,000 high-quality submissions while partnering with over 20 art schools. This creative ecosystem demonstrates Huawei’s commitment to fostering digital artistry beyond hardware capabilities.

Strategic Positioning: Ecosystem Warfare and Brand Evolution

This launch represents Huawei’s most direct challenge to Apple’s ecosystem integration, addressing specific pain points competitors have ignored. The underwater communication system creates an entirely new product category for adventure sports enthusiasts, while cycling virtual power eliminates cost barriers that neither Garmin nor Apple has solved comprehensively.

The Nova 14 series’ Ultra Chroma camera technology directly challenges Google’s computational photography leadership and Apple’s portrait mode capabilities. According to Huawei, the 120% improvement in color restoration accuracy could reshape smartphone photography expectations among professional users if validated through independent testing. For tablet productivity, the MatePad 12X’s PC-level capabilities with M-Pencil Pro target iPad Pro users who find Apple’s ecosystem limiting for professional creative work. The Phil Mora video editing partnership and animation features suggest deeper understanding of creative professional requirements than previous Android tablet manufacturers. Medical-grade blood pressure monitoring positions Huawei ahead of traditional consumer health tracking, potentially opening healthcare market segments that smartwatch competitors have struggled to penetrate with clinical credibility.

Beyond technical specifications, Huawei positions itself as “a brand for the young at heart,” recognizing that younger users seek to be seen, heard, and understood while focusing on personal growth. This manifests through animated watch faces, gesture controls, creative tools, and community-building initiatives that integrate entertainment elements with lifestyle experiences.

The Huawei Health Multi-Pass provides up to 90 days of free access to partner services for GT 6 and Ultimate 2 purchasers, while regional payment partnerships span Europe, Latin America, and Asia-Pacific markets. The “Enjoy Your Moment” proposition has reached 18 countries with almost 1,000 events and over 6,000 attendees, extending beyond hardware into lifestyle experiences. Aggressive pricing challenges established competitors: Watch GT 6 starts at $249, while the GT 6 Pro begins at €379, offering unique capabilities that Apple Watch and Garmin alternatives lack.

Testing Will Determine Real-World Performance Claims

While Huawei’s specifications and demonstrations appear impressive across all product categories, independent testing will determine whether these devices deliver on their ambitious promises. The cycling virtual power accuracy, underwater communication reliability, medical-grade blood pressure monitoring, Ultra Chroma camera performance, and PC-level tablet productivity require verification under real-world conditions.

The company’s track record provides confidence, but several technologies represent entirely new territory for consumer devices. The Ultimate 2’s underwater communication, the Nova 14’s Ultra Chroma imaging system, the MatePad 12X’s professional creative capabilities, and the Watch D2’s medical certifications need validation against established benchmarks in their respective categories.

Comprehensive testing will evaluate battery life claims under actual usage patterns, camera performance across lighting conditions, tablet productivity workflows, and the practical utility of health monitoring advances. This Paris launch represents significant technological ambition across multiple product categories – now the industry will discover whether execution matches the innovation promises.

Conclusion: Ecosystem Warfare Intensifies

Huawei’s Paris showcase demonstrates that the next phase of consumer electronics competition won’t be won through individual product superiority, but through comprehensive ecosystem experiences that solve real-world problems competitors have ignored. By addressing specific pain points – from cycling power measurement to underwater communication to medical-grade health monitoring – while maintaining ecosystem coherence, Huawei has positioned itself as the most credible challenger to Apple’s integrated approach.

The success of this strategy will depend on execution quality, software ecosystem development, and the company’s ability to maintain innovation momentum across multiple product categories simultaneously. For consumers, this marks the most ambitious expansion of an ecosystem challenger focused on solving specific problems rather than matching existing solutions.

The post Huawei Paris Launch: Watch GT 6 Pro and Ultimate 2 add underwater messaging, cycling power, and medical grade health first appeared on Yanko Design.

Adventure watch buyers face endless compromises. Luxury materials or smart connectivity. Professional diving capability or comprehensive health monitoring. Rugged durability or premium aesthetics. Huawei claims the Watch Ultimate 2 eliminates these trade-offs through three engineering pillars: industry-first sonar underwater communication, professional-grade 150-meter diving certification, and X-TAP dual-sensor health monitoring. Built with zirconium liquid metal construction rated 8.7 times more corrosion-resistant than previous materials, the Ultimate 2 targets users demanding both luxury craftsmanship and professional capability according to Huawei.

Designer: Huawei

Positioning the Ultimate 2

Huawei positions the Ultimate 2 as their flagship adventure watch targeting serious outdoor enthusiasts who refuse to compromise. The watch sits above Huawei’s Watch series for tech users, GT series for fitness enthusiasts, Fit series for fashion consumers, and D series for health monitoring.

Huawei targets direct competition with Apple’s Watch Ultra while claiming superior diving specifications and unique sonar capabilities no competitor provides. The Ultimate 2 creates what Huawei calls a new category between luxury diving watches lacking smart features and consumer smartwatches compromising professional capability.

Compared to established dive computer brands like Suunto and Garmin’s Descent series, Huawei claims equivalent diving functionality with comprehensive smartwatch integration. Ocean Blue models at €999 and Compass Black versions at €899 position against luxury adventure watches costing significantly more.

Pillar Innovation 1: Industry-First Sonar Underwater Communication

Huawei integrated the first compact sonar system into smartwatch architecture. The miniaturized sonar module operates at 3-5 kHz frequency optimized for underwater clarity and long-distance performance. Advanced signal amplification and filtering enable stable watch-to-watch communication across varying conditions according to Huawei.

The system pairs with up to 50 dive buddies simultaneously, creating underwater networks designed to increase rescue chances during emergencies. Messages transmit in 500 nanoseconds enabling real-time communication that Huawei claims surpasses traditional underwater methods.

Consider a diver trapped in low visibility conditions 40 meters down. Hand signals require direct sight lines that murky water eliminates. Flashlights work only at close range with limited battery life. Huawei’s sonar system uses natural marine animal communication technology, providing reliable messaging regardless of water clarity or environmental obstacles according to the company.

Pillar Innovation 2: Professional Diving Engineering

The Ultimate 2 achieves 20 ATM water resistance equivalent to 200 meters depth with diving functions certified operational to 150 meters. The certification meets ISO 22810:2010 water resistance standards and EN 13319 diving accessory requirements according to Huawei.

An innovative mechanical sealing system automatically engages at 30 meters depth by sensing water pressure. The system creates what Huawei describes as an impenetrable barrier under extreme conditions. Multi-layer water-resistant film maintains audio quality while preventing infiltration.

Four diving modes support recreational scuba, technical scuba, free diving, and gauge instrumentation applications. Huawei positions this as diving equipment integrated with smartwatch capabilities rather than water resistance with diving marketing.

Pillar Innovation 3: X-TAP Dual-Sensor Health Monitoring

X-TAP health monitoring extends beyond wrist-based measurements through sensor integration first introduced on the Watch 5 in May 2025. The system incorporates a finger sensor on the watch’s right side requiring index finger placement for enhanced accuracy according to Huawei.

Full ECG sensor integration provides medical-grade insights users can share with healthcare providers. Huawei’s TruSense platform analyzes data from multiple sensor points simultaneously through advanced algorithms. The dual-sensor approach maintains accuracy during intense physical activity when wrist-only sensors fail according to Huawei.

Advanced cardiovascular monitoring includes heart rate tracking, arterial stiffness measurement, and sleep analysis designed for serious athletes. Sleep tracking, stress monitoring, and emotional wellness features provide health oversight beyond basic fitness tracking.

Premium Materials and Construction

Huawei engineered the Ultimate 2 using materials typically found in luxury timepieces costing significantly more. The zirconium-based liquid metal body provides 8.7 times more corrosion resistance than previous materials while delivering stronger construction for extreme outdoor conditions.

Ultra-hard coating systems achieve 300 percent better wear resistance. Sapphire crystal glass rates 9 on the hardness scale, second only to diamond. Nanocrystal ceramic bezel and rear components provide hypoallergenic properties while maintaining premium finish quality.

The 1.5-inch LTPO AMOLED display delivers 3500 nits peak brightness designed for underwater readability according to Huawei.

Design Variants and Configurations

The Ocean Blue model showcases diving watch heritage through blue and white 3-to-1 ratio bezel patterns drawing inspiration from classic underwater timepieces. Blue and white woven fluoroelastomer straps feature 3D wave textured finish with dual-color injection molding.

Extended diving straps and premium titanium options serve diving, adventure, business, and luxury applications. The Compass Black model targets adventure enthusiasts through black ceramic case construction with red highlights. Black fluoroelastomer straps provide sweat-resistant properties with extended options for wetsuit compatibility.

Sports and Outdoor Capabilities That Matter

Golf integration addresses the precision demands serious golfers face on challenging courses. Over 15,000 worldwide course maps provide hole layouts, hazard locations, and distance measurements. Dual-frequency positioning provides accuracy Huawei claims surpasses dedicated golf GPS devices.

Picture a golfer checking slope-adjusted distances mid-swing on a challenging course. Heat maps adjust recommendations for terrain slopes, providing insights that transform course management from guesswork to data-driven strategy according to Huawei.

Outdoor capabilities target adventurers venturing beyond cellular coverage. Satellite positioning provides remote area tracking. Fall detection offers automatic alerts during solo expeditions. High altitude monitoring supports mountaineering adventures where atmospheric conditions affect both device performance and user physiology.

Battery Performance That Enables Adventure

Battery performance directly impacts expedition planning and safety margins. Huawei claims 14 days standard operation or 8 days intensive usage through advanced power management. Wireless charging achieves 50 percent capacity in 30 minutes for expedition-ready quick charging.

Multi-week battery life means extended expeditions without charging anxiety. Cross-platform compatibility supports iOS, Android, and HarmonyOS with full smartphone integration regardless of platform. Health app connectivity enables data synchronization, health analysis, and dive log integration for session analysis and sharing.

The HarmonyOS interface distinguishes the watch from simpler fitness trackers through robust feature sets designed for applications requiring both luxury aesthetics and capability.

We’ll reserve judgment on Huawei’s sonar communication, diving depth, and health monitoring claims until comprehensive real-world testing validates performance against established competitors like Apple’s Watch Ultra and dive computers from Suunto and Garmin.

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Huawei says the Watch GT 6 series can estimate cycling power from the wrist, cutting out £800 hardware and bringing structured training to more riders. The company pairs that promise with dual-frequency GPS, titanium and sapphire materials on the Pro, and battery life rated up to 21 days. Real-world accuracy for power, heart rate, and positioning will need independent testing before any verdict.

Designer: Huawei

Huawei says it is the first smartwatch with built-in wrist-based cycling power estimation (claims require verification against Garmin, COROS, and Polar offerings). The technology aims to lower the cost barrier for power-based training. Where traditional power meters require expensive crank arms, pedals, or hub installations, the GT 6’s virtual power system operates exclusively through wrist-worn sensors and intelligent data processing.

Built for the Demands of Serious Training

The GT 6 series targets athletes who demand reliability in challenging conditions. Huawei addresses this through materials engineering on the Pro model: sapphire crystal protects the 1.47-inch AMOLED display from scratches that would render lesser screens unreadable, while aviation-grade titanium construction resists the impacts and temperature extremes that destroy plastic fitness trackers. The nano crystal ceramic rear housing promises comfort during extended wear without the skin irritation common to metal backs.

This durability focus extends to battery endurance, where Huawei claims a decisive advantage. The GT 6 Pro’s 21-day battery life eliminates charging anxiety during multi-day training camps or remote adventures where power access becomes limited. Even the standard GT 6 models promise 12-14 days of operation, reducing the charging frequency that makes competing watches impractical for serious training schedules.

Display visibility receives equal attention through peak brightness designed for direct sunlight readability. Outdoor cyclists and runners need instant access to power data, navigation, and heart rate metrics without squinting or seeking shade. The AMOLED technology provides the contrast and color accuracy necessary for quick data interpretation during high-intensity efforts.

Comprehensive Health Monitoring Without Extra Hardware

The TruSense sensor system is designed for chest-strap-level accuracy without additional hardware. The comprehensive monitoring combines heart rate tracking with an accelerometer, gyroscope, compass, and barometer to deliver what Huawei positions as professional-grade physiological data. Blood oxygen monitoring, skin temperature tracking, and ECG functionality may expand this capability, though regional availability including the UK requires confirmation.

This sensor fusion powers the wrist-based cycling power estimation that eliminates expensive hardware barriers to structured training.

Training Independence Through Smart Connectivity

Dual-frequency GPS positioning addresses the urban signal reflection and forest canopy interference that breaks competitor navigation systems. This enhanced route fidelity becomes essential for cyclists training in challenging environments where accurate distance and elevation data directly impact training load calculations and performance analysis.

The connectivity package extends to on-device music storage and offline mapping capabilities that reduce smartphone dependency during training. Call functionality through the built-in microphone and speaker system allows communication without removing gloves or stopping mid-ride, while NFC payment support enables convenience store stops without carrying additional devices.

How It Stacks Up Against Garmin and Apple

HarmonyOS 6.0 with cross-platform compatibility through the Huawei Health app represents a strategic counter to Apple’s ecosystem lock-in. Android, iOS, and EMUI device compatibility ensures the watch remains useful regardless of smartphone choice, while data export to third-party analysis platforms preserves training history even outside Huawei’s ecosystem.

The £229-£329 pricing of the Huawei GT 6 undercuts Apple Watch Series 11, which starts at $399/USD on Apple’s website. Meanwhile Apple Watch Ultra 3 begins at $799/USD. This pricing still gives Huawei a strong advantage for structured training features at a much lower entry point.

Launch timing on September 19, 2025, places the GT 6 series in direct competition with autumn fitness technology releases, though final specifications including dimensions, weight, water resistance ratings, and charging details remain unconfirmed pending independent verification.

What Virtual Power Means for Your Training

A typical crank-based power meter costs £700-£900, with pedal-based systems like Garmin Vector 3S starting around £450 for single-leg measurement. Adding sensors and installation often complicates bike setup, requiring specific crank compatibility or professional fitting. Wrist-based power estimation avoids that complexity entirely, though it may sacrifice some precision during steep climbs where gradient calculations become less reliable.

The GT 6’s virtual calculation processes GPS-derived speed, barometric altitude changes, rider weight profiles, and bike-specific resistance characteristics simultaneously. For structured training, this could enable power-based intervals, Functional Threshold Power tests, and training load distribution analysis without additional hardware expenses or compatibility headaches.

Huawei claims up to 98% cycling accuracy and 95% trail running precision versus chest straps in internal company testing, though the testing methodology, sample size, and independent verification remain undisclosed. The system promises integration with established cycling workflows through route importing, power-based coaching guidance, and data export to platforms like TrainingPeaks and Strava.

Independent testing against dedicated power meters across varied terrain, rider weights, and bike configurations will determine whether virtual power estimation can truly serve serious training applications.

Why GPS Finally Matters in City Riding

Urban riders often run into broken GPS tracks where tall buildings reflect signals or forests cut them off completely. Huawei tackles this with dual-frequency positioning and a redesigned antenna system. In practical terms, that means your distance tracking and route maps should stay accurate in places where single-band watches drift off course.

The company claims a 20 percent accuracy gain over its previous generation, but what matters is how that translates for cyclists and runners. Better route fidelity allows more reliable gradient tracking, which in turn gives immediate feedback on climbing performance. For athletes using structured training plans, accurate elevation and distance data keep training load calculations from being skewed.

Huawei hasn’t yet confirmed which satellite constellations the GT 6 supports, and that detail could determine whether the improvement holds consistently across different geographies. Once tested, though, this approach could help the GT 6 avoid the classic frustrations of broken GPS segments in city canyons or wooded trails.

Heart Rate Reliability for Training Zones

Training effectiveness depends on accurate heart rate data during different intensity zones, from recovery rides to threshold efforts. The TruSense system promises chest-strap accuracy without additional hardware, crucial for cyclists who rely on heart rate zones to guide interval training and recovery periods.

Huawei claims 98% accuracy during cycling activities and 95% precision for trail running in internal tests, though testing conditions and methodology remain undisclosed. The heart rate monitoring extends beyond basic fitness tracking through medical-grade pulse wave arrhythmia analysis, designed to catch irregularities that could affect training safety.

The system integrates heart rate data with comprehensive wellness monitoring through Health Insight summaries that combine sleep quality, workout intensity, and recovery metrics into actionable guidance. For structured training programs, this holistic approach could help athletes balance training load with adequate recovery.

Our review will validate heart rate accuracy against chest strap monitors across multiple sport activities and intensity zones to determine real-world reliability for training applications.

Battery Life That Matches Your Training Schedule

Huawei claims the GT 6 Pro delivers up to 21 days of battery life, with the standard GT 6 promising 12-14 days depending on size. In real outdoor use with GPS tracking, heart rate monitoring, and music playback active, battery life will likely be lower – but even at half those figures, the GT 6 would outlast most competitors significantly.

For comparison, Garmin’s Forerunner 965 manages roughly 23 days in smartwatch mode but drops to 31 hours with GPS and music. Apple’s Watch Series 10 requires daily charging under normal use. The GT 6’s extended endurance could eliminate charging anxiety during multi-day training camps or remote adventures where power access becomes limited.

The extended performance comes from what Huawei describes as high-silicon stacked custom-shaped battery technology that maximizes energy density within the watch’s design parameters. Charging specifications, including cable type and time to reach usable levels, require verification through independent testing.

Premium Construction

Athletic training environments test wearable durability through temperature extremes, impact exposure, and moisture challenges that destroy consumer electronics. The Huawei Watch GT 6 Pro combines sapphire glass front protection with aviation-grade titanium construction and nano crystal ceramic rear housing, designed for scratch resistance, impact protection, and skin comfort during extended athletic wear.

Display brightness reaches a claimed 3,000 nits peak output for direct sunlight readability, though this figure awaits independent confirmation. The GT 6 Pro measures 1.47 inches diagonally with AMOLED technology, representing a 5.5% screen size increase over the previous GT 5 Pro generation.

Beyond Training: Daily Commuting and Smart Features

For everyday use, the GT 6 faces significant app ecosystem limitations compared to Apple Watch or Wear OS devices. While HarmonyOS 6.0 handles notifications, calls, and music playback competently, the third-party app selection remains sparse. You won’t find Spotify offline downloads, Uber summoning, or banking apps that make Apple Watch indispensable for urban commuting.

However, the GT 6 covers essential daily functions effectively. NFC payments work through Huawei Pay where supported, though coverage lags behind Apple Pay or Google Pay acceptance. Music storage handles MP3 files directly, useful for gym sessions or runs without phone dependency. Call handling through the built-in microphone and speaker system allows hands-free conversations during dog walks or commutes.

Cross-platform compatibility through the Huawei Health app ensures Android, iOS, and EMUI users can sync fitness data and receive notifications regardless of phone choice. This versatility matters for users who switch devices frequently or prefer not to be locked into Apple’s ecosystem. The trade-off comes in notification reply functionality on iOS, which remains limited compared to native Apple Watch integration.

Competitive Positioning

Huawei positions the GT 6 series directly against premium fitness wearables including Garmin’s Forerunner 965 at £449 and Apple’s latest lineup, where the Watch Series 11 starts at $399 and the Watch Ultra 3 at $799. The company emphasizes longer battery life, cycling-specific metrics, and lower entry pricing as key differentiators in a market dominated by ecosystem lock-in and high-end performance features.

Market growth figures shared by Huawei, such as rising adoption among non-Huawei smartphone users in the UK and year-over-year share gains, remain unverified and should be treated cautiously until confirmed by independent reporting. What matters most for competitive athletes is whether the GT 6 can consistently deliver reliable power data across diverse riding conditions.

The crucial test is accuracy. If wrist-based power estimation proves dependable in real-world use, it could make structured training accessible to far more cyclists. Our review will measure how well the GT 6 performs against established hardware across terrain, rider weights, and intensities to see if it can stand as a genuine alternative to dedicated power meters.

The post Huawei Watch GT 6 Pro launches with wrist-based cycling power, pro-grade GPS, and 21-day battery life first appeared on Yanko Design.

The rumour mill has been going around about Meta’s next big take on wearable augmented reality glasses, with an authentic leak spilling the beans a couple of days ago. The wait is finally over as the Annual Meta Connect event in Menlo Park saw Mark Zuckerberg talk long and hard about the new smart glasses. Called the Meta Ray-Ban Display spectacles, the wearable is a perfect balance of flair and practical use. Meta also announced the Neural Band, which will be included with the $799 wearable.

Alongside this, the event saw the reveal of sports-focused Oakley Vanguard glasses and the new Ray-Ban Meta Gen 2 with improved hardware. The latter comes with a better camera module, bumped up battery life of 8 hours, and a 12MP ultra-wide camera with 3K video shooting capability. The updated version of Ray-Ban Meta Gen 2 is priced at $379-$459.

Designer: Meta, Ray-Ban, Oakley

Meta Ray-Ban Display

The newly announced smart glasses have a full-color monocular display in the right eye to bring a very intriguing interface as a heads-up display. This takes it beyond the audio and chat interface of the previous generations, employing the onboard AI engine to the maximum. This display, having a 120-degree field of view, comes with a resolution of 600×600 at 42 pixels per degree. Meta has bumped up the refresh rate for media content to 90Hz and content scrolling to 30Hz. The brightness on the Meta Ray-Ban Display remains the same as the earlier version, i.e., ranging from 30 to 5,000 nits. The glasses have an embedded 12MP camera that has 3x zoom levels, which comes in handy for previewing shots or instantly taking close-up videos.

This nano display comes with UV detection to automatically turn on, and has just 2 percent light leakage. That means others in your vicinity won’t be able to eavesdrop on what’s going on your glass interface. You can have a quick glance at your text messages, navigation directions, or photos while walking in the streets as the display creates a non-intrusive dashboard in your peripheral vision. Most importantly, the smart glasses weighing 69 grams are just like any regular spectacles, but they have 30 hours of standby battery life and around 6 hours on mixed use on a busy day. These are the most practical smart glasses that you can invest in without second thoughts, and they’ll be available in two colors – Black and Sand – starting September 30 in the US. Availability in other markets, including the UK, Canada, France, and Italy, is slated for early 2026.

Neural Band and Oakley Meta Vanguard

Meta has developed the Neural Band as an accessory of the Meta Ray-Ban Display to unify the input and make things ultra smooth in operation. The IPX7 water-resistant wristband detects gestures, swipes, taps, pinches, or rotations to trigger a variety of inputs on the glasses or to simply navigate the display interface. The smart wearable makes use of electrical impulses in the forearms to detect the desired input by the wearer. Not only this, but later in the year, the band will get the ability to detect handwritten notes or messages. Neural band has a battery life of 18 hours and comes in complementing Shiny Black or Shiny Sand colorways.

Mark also announced the Oakley Meta Vanguard glasses, featuring a wrap-around design, targeted at people with an active lifestyle. The IP67-rated glasses boast a centrally mounted 12MP ultrawide camera with a 122-degree FOV, 3K video recording capability, a five-mic array for clearer conversations, nine hours of battery life, and 6dB speakers in each arm to cancel out distracting ambient noises. These are the logical predecessors of the Oakley Meta HSTN smart frames, bringing ample improvements to justify the $499 price tag. They can be pre-ordered immediately, with shipping scheduled for October 21.

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